Brij Hotels sign up a historic property in Dharamshala

Brij Hotels, a collection of bespoke properties offering hyperlocal experiences in the most amazing locations, has announced signing of Brij Anarya - a luxury boutique resort in Dharamshala. A 245-year-old colonial estate in the heart of Dharamshala, the resort has an envious history like none other. Originally known as ‘White Haven’, Brij Anarya is a one-of-a-kind property in Dharamshala with a rich Victorian legacy. The property has had the honor of hosting erstwhile Viceroys, British explorers, and many important dignitaries during the British Raj.

Brij Anarya, with majestic views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar range, offers a unique boutique luxury experience in the lap of Himalayas. Set amidst tall deodar and oak trees, sprawling lawns, verdant views & surrounding tea plantations, the property hosts 12 Suites and is spread over 10 acres of mountain plateau. This boutique retreat with open windows, tall chimney and green tin roofs exudes an old-world charm. Brij Anarya offers its guests a luxurious stay amidst victorian décor, with all modern comforts & amenities. In the tradition of all Brij Hotel Properties, Brij Anarya will offer immersive local experiences from the region. There are a wide range of activities on offer for engaging guests within the Resort as well as exploring the surrounding areas. The property is conveniently located at 12 km from the Gaggal airport and a stone's throw from the Dharamshala bus stop.

Speaking on this latest development, Shiv Mehan, CEO - Brij Hotels said, “We are excited to have Brij Anarya in our curated collection of highly Experiential Boutique Resorts and this marks the second location for Brij Hotels in Himachal Pradesh. It is an honor to be sharing the legacy of this esteemed heritage property with our guests. We look forward to transporting our guests to another era with the Brij Anarya when we open our doors in June and ensure they take back unique memories of Dharamshala.”

Resonating the excitement was Sahil Sharma, Owner Atman Resorts LLP. He said, “We are delighted to partner with Brij Hotels who are known to curate unique experiences for the guests and we are well on the way to expand the property into a luxury resort with increased Inventory, Dining Options, Recreation and Spa facilities coming soon.”

Soon to open, Brij Anarya is the only property in the region with a history interwoven with the tea plantations of Kangra and the historic tea trade across the Northern Provinces, the Kashgar Region of the Hindukush and across the original Silk Route. Among the honored dignitaries who have stayed here includes British explorer Robert Barkley Shaw, administrators Sir Thomas Douglas Forsyth and Sir Donald Friel McLeod, highly regarded aristocrats of their time.

Brij Anarya is scheduled for launch in June 2023 and will join the current portfolio of 7 Brij properties in India across Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi), Rajasthan (Kukas, Pali, Jawai, Bikaner and Jaipur), Himachal Pradesh (Dalhousie). Brij Atmanya - a boutique property located in Bhowali - Nainital (Uttarakhand) is also scheduled for launch in Q2 2023. Brij is also adding multiple destinations to its portfolio with hotels in Bandhavgarh, Goa and Pokhara (Nepal) under development.

Fortune Hotels inks a new alliance in Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar promises unmatched serenity amidst pristine Himalayan landscapes

Khajjiar, May 2023: Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group announced the signing of an operating agreement for a hotel in the picturesque hill station of Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh. This is the upscale hotel chain’s 5th hotel in the scenic State of Himachal Pradesh.

This existing property has been undergoing an extensive renovation programme and is set to open its doors in the first quarter of FY 2023-24. It promises to be a delightful retreat for travellers seeking memorable experiences amidst the pristine Himalayan ranges. 

Nestled in the lap of nature, this charming hotel perched at an altitude of 6,500 ft. is poised to offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is a stone’s throw from the Khajjiar Lake.  Just an hour’s drive away from the tourist hot spot Dalhousie, the hotel offers easy access to other popular tourist attractions in the region, making it an ideal choice for leisure travellers looking to explore the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh.

The well-appointed rooms & suites with their magnificent views are the highlight; along with which the all-day diner, a chic bar, a modern banquet hall, kids play area, a gymnasium, swimming pool and a restful spa, make the hotel suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Additionally, the town attracts adventure seekers as well, hosting multiple adventure sports like paragliding, horse riding, trekking, and zorbing which are constant attractions here.

Speaking on the occasion, Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Hotels said, "En route to speedily growing our leisure footprint across India, we add yet another jewel to our portfolio and our ever-so-popular properties in the hills.  This is our second alliance in Himachal Pradesh with the Ownership and we thank our partners for once again trusting us with their hotel and helping us bring our reputed brand to this mesmerizing town of Khajjiar, a destination known for its natural beauty and charm. " 

Khajjiar is a pristine picture-postcard hill town just 24 kms from Dalhousie. Surrounded by green limitless meadows, the quaint old-world borough is blessed with abundant flora and fauna, deep valleys, snow-clad hills, a picturesque lake, a rich wildlife sanctuary and a cedar forest in its heart. Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India” it is also famous for its nine-hole golf course which is nestled in the midst of lush greenery and a breathtaking landscape. 

About Fortune Park Hotels Ltd

Fortune Park Hotels Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd. and is India's leading chain of first-class, full-service business and leisure hotels, with 58 signed alliances and over 4400 rooms, across 49 cities in the country. 

Fortune Hotels’ brand philosophy is driven by its objective to provide contemporary accommodation to business and leisure travellers through its wide range of accommodation in pertinent destinations, with emphasis on personalized service at great value. 

Convenient locations, excellence of cuisine, efficient service and competitive pricing have made the Fortune Hotels chain popular amongst discerning travellers.

Fortune, a member of ITC’s hotel group has a number of clearly defined sub-brands bringing instant recall, so that guests can easily match their requirements with the chain’s offers. The sub-brands under which the hotels are being operated by the chain are Fortune Select, Fortune Park, Fortune Inn, and Fortune Resort.

For more information, visit: www.fortunehotels.in

Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd. signs a new property in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

The property will expand the Aurika Hotels & Resorts brand

New Delhi, February 2023: Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd. announced its latest signing under Aurika Hotels & Resorts – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels, with Aurika, Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh. Located on Kanda Road, the project is slated to open in November 2024. The property shall be operated by Carnation Hotels Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary and management arm of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd.

The property will feature 110 elegant rooms and suites, Mirasa - the all-day dining restaurant – Ariva - the bar - expansive banquet spaces spread over 3,000 sq. mtrs., and eclectic venues for private events and exclusive experiences. The recreational facilities will include a relaxing spa, a stunning swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center and a game room.

Kasauli is a quaint hilly cantonment town that makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway. Kasauli is highly-accessible from Chandigarh & Delhi and is known for its beautiful villas and serene environment. This colonial-era hill station in Himachal, with unrivalled views of majestic Himalayan vistas, is a popular writers’ retreat.  Tourists can enjoy the old-world charm of Mall Road which is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, bookstores and the famous Kasauli Club. One can also visit the popular Kasauli Brewery to sample the heady brews of this old and ancient establishment. At one end of the Upper Mall Road is Sunset Point, a popular sightseeing spot in Kasauli. The popular hill station is also known for The Lawrence School, Sanawar which boasts of several celebrity alumni.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mahesh Aiyer, CEO – Carnation Hotels Private Limited commented, “We are happy to announce our signing of an Aurika with our valued partner, Arosa Resorts Pvt. Ltd. This property will further expand our footprint in Himachal Pradesh where we have an operational property in Baddi and another 3 upcoming in Shimla, Manali and McLeodganj. Aurika, Kasauli promises immersive experiences to showcase the best of upscale hospitality in the state. Kasauli is a must-visit destination on tourist itineraries and a beloved spot for hikers. The hill station is also a preferred destination for both Indian and international travellers and Aurika, Kasauli will be a perfect addition to the beautiful state.”

About Aurika Hotels & Resorts – Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels

Aurika hotels are stylishly elegant yet comfortably informal. With an emphasis on design, these hotels are a reflection of the soul of the destination where they are located and each has its own personality.

These hotels feature new-age dining and innovative entertainment options, complemented by invigorating fitness and wellness facilities. Inspiring spaces, flawless delivery and cutting-edge technological solutions ensure that our guests can work, play and relax effortlessly. 

 The essence of the brand is reflected in ‘beyond the unusual’. Service goes beyond the expected and is attentive and personal, yet unobtrusive.

New Opening | Himachal Pradesh gets a new gem as Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala opens its doors to guests

Himachal Pradesh gets a new gem as Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala opens its doors to guests 

New Delhi, July 2021: Radisson Blu, an upper upscale brand that delivers a positive and personalized service in stylish spaces, is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Located on the scenic foothills of the mighty Dhauladhar Range, this idyllic resort is a perfect getaway with accessibility from all corners of the world. The resort offers the perfect combination of business and leisure amenities for discerning travelers.

“We are delighted to bring our flagship brand to Dharamshala. Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala is our fourth hotel opening in 2021 which is set to mark new milestones for our business. We seek to add more than 15 new hotels to our portfolio this year, achieving the 100-hotel milestone,” said Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and Vice President Operations, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

Deluxe Room With Balcony

With easy accessibility from Kangra Airport, the resort features 120-uniquely designed modern rooms overlooking the most picturesque view of the spectacular Kangra Valley. The resort enjoys an independent access from Khaniyara road connected to national highway 503 and is conveniently placed to explore all popular tourist destinations around Dharamshala.

“We are honored to open this superb resort in Kangra Valley. Radisson Hotel Group was our chosen strategic partner and we are confident that this hotel will set a new benchmark of hospitality in the valley,” said R.P. Singh, Director, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association.

Spread over 30,000 sqm and located 6 km from the iconic Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, the resort features rooms across standard, superior, deluxe, suite and presidential suite categories. It constitutes three banquet halls - Mid Off, Mid On and Centurion with capacity between 80 to 100 pax and an outdoor venue, The Banquet Deck, offering unparalleled views of the Kangra Valley and ideally suited to host weddings and social functions.

In addition to 24-hour room service, the resort houses numerous onsite dining options serving a variety of cuisines such as The Edge – all day dining restaurant serving a range of local and western dishes; Italian Crust - the specialty Pizzeria, and All Out – Lounge Bar offering an enviable selection of wine and spirits along with delicious small bites.

Vikas Sharma, General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala said, “I am confident that the unique combination of the resort’s location, its facilities and the Group’s unmatched service standards will prove to be a compelling option for travelers looking for all-inclusive hospitality in the hills.”

Suite

Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala will feature The Spa at Radisson Blu, a full-service branded spa offering guests a 360º immersive experience by focusing on minds, bodies, and emotions. The spa will offer a selection of natural, holistic, and beauty treatments for complete rejuvenation. Other amenities for rest and relaxation include a meditation room, a contemporary fitness studio, and a temperature-controlled infinity pool offering a tranquil view of the Kangra valley. The resort offers a range of family recreation options such as an outdoor kids’ play area, family picnic spots in the serene pine forest, and a cozy cards room.

With the health and safety of guests and team members as its top priority, Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala is implementing the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol program. The in-depth cleanliness and disinfection protocols were developed in partnership with SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company, and are designed to ensure guest safety and peace of mind from check-in to check-out.

Radisson Blu Resort Dharamshala is a Unit of Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association.

Himachal government announces interest subvention on working capital loan for hospitality sector

To provide relief to the COVID-19 affected the tourism sector, the state government has introduced a scheme for interest subvention on working capital loans for the hospitality sector.

The eligibility criteria as well as the magnitude of financing being provided will be based on the unit’s GST payment history.

If the registered tourism unit has paid an average GST up to Rs 1 crore per year, the unit will be entitled to a working capital loan of Rs 50 lakh. 

‘My Shimla Hotel Is Ghosted, No Respite For Industry in Unlock 1’

Key Take Away

The Himachal government has asked hotels to open from 8 June but only for locals within Himachal state business travel. No tourists are allowed to enter Himachal Pradesh or be entertained in hotels.

Children below 10 and people above 65 will not be allowed into the state. The cost of compliance with the new SOP norms by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is huge.

 The unified representation of 18 hotel associations of Himachal Pradesh has conveyed to the state government that they will not open till end-August or September.

For More Information click below:

www.thequint.com/my-report/coronavirus-impact-tourism-industry-losses-shimla-himachal-pradesh